I'm 25 years old. That means that for my entire lifetime, the political ambitions of two dynastic families has controlled what my government does. And even though they are from opposing political parties, their base ideology is remarkably similar.
Both families supported NAFTA and lobbied for its passage and expansion. As we know, Labor and most Democrats strongly opposed NAFTA. Independent candidate Ross Perot attacked NAFTA as a job killer. And he was right. Over 1 Million well-paying manufacturing jobs disappeared, moving to nations with questionable political and human rights records. When given the opportunity at the recent Democratic debate to distance herself from NAFTA and its expansion, she called it "A vague memory."
The John Edwards campaign quickly released a web ad highlighting Clinton's position.
Both families also support pre-emptive war. In 2002, Bush asked for, and Hillary voted for the use of force against Iraq. Despite plenty of opportunities, she has not said her vote was wrong, unlike her colleagues, John Edwards, Joe Biden, Chris Dodd, John Kerry, and the list goes on. In 2007, she voted with Joe Lieberman and Jon Kyl, two uber-hawks, to declare part of the Iranian military a "terrorist organization." Senator Jim Webb, not exactly a dove, said those who voted for the resolution, knowing how George Bush interprets resolutions, voted for a back-door entry into Iran.
Both families have been plagued by scandal. Bush the First had Iran Contra to deal with. Bill Clinton was impeached for perjury and obstruction of justice. Bush the Second has countless scandals associated with him. And now, Hillary Clinton is also plagued by scandals, mostly financial. She's raised (and returned) millions in tainted money. Perhaps worst of all, she has accepted donations from people pardoned by her husband. Is it any wonder she wants to keep her White House papers and schedules hidden from the public for as long as possible?
Democrats in the early states have an opportunity over the Thanksgiving Holiday. They have the chance to think hard, and realize that this isn't a corronation. Democrats have a choice. And they should vote for change.
Happy Holidays.
